While most children entering foster care have a brother or sister, only 25% of these sibling groups are kept together. In addition to being separated from their parents, these children lose what may be the only other family relationship they have ever known—their siblings.
When asked, most adoptees say that keeping siblings together is ideal. But they also say there are situations where it’s best to separate siblings in the adoption process.
Gulf Coast Adoptions explains what you need to know before adopting siblings.
The Unique Experience of Adopting Siblings
Studies show that sibling adoption is largely beneficial to children. Children adopted as a sibling group are likely to have increased resilience and emotional adjustment. Overall, sibling groups adopted together have improved mental health, and social skills, and lower feelings of loneliness.
Florida adoption law recognizes the potential benefits of sibling adoption. Florida Statutes § 63.022(3) states that the legislative intent of the Florida adoption law is to maintain sibling groups when appropriate.
However, sibling group adoption may not be appropriate in all circumstances.
Legal Considerations for Adopting Siblings
- Generally, Florida adoption laws are the same for sibling groups as for individual adoptions. The child must be available for adoption, and the adoptive parents must be qualified to adopt. The intended placement must be suitable, considering the best interests of the child.
- Being open to adopting a sibling group can make it easier to be approved for adoption. In determining approval for adoption, one of the factors the court considers is the ability and willingness of the adoptive family to adopt some of a sibling group or an entire sibling group (Florida Administrative Code DCF, Chapter 65C-16.005).
- Even though the goal is keeping sibling groups together, no child may be disadvantaged in being adopted because the adoptive family can’t adopt all siblings. The child’s needs and the ability to maintain contact will also be considered.
- Generally, relatives are given preference in adoption, including in sibling group adoptions.
- Florida maintains an adoption exchange. If the child is a member of a sibling group, all siblings must have the same identification number memo and web-ready photo. Photos must be updated periodically.
- If adopting internationally, be aware of age-based rules for child eligibility determination for older children that fall under the immediate relative process. A child ages 16 to 18 may be adopted as a sibling exception if the child is under 18 and their sibling is adopted under the age of 16 and coming to the United States to be adopted by the same parent(s).
Florida Statutes § 63.0427 allows for a contact agreement for separated siblings. When a child is in DCF (Department of Children and Families) custody and adopted, the court may order continued contact with siblings. They must consider the input of the adoptive parent. Once ordered, an adoptive parent may ask the court to modify or terminate the contract because it is no longer in the child’s best interests. The court cannot increase contact without the consent of the adoptive parent.
Emotional and Psychological Challenges
Sibling group adoption may bring significant challenges. Children may have varied physical and emotional needs. They may continue to act out negatively with siblings and impact the family dynamics. Older children may be used to a parentified role towards younger siblings, and it may take time to adjust to new roles.
Support and Resources for Families Adopting Siblings
An assessment of the sibling relationship can help determine if it’s appropriate to place children together or separately. This assessment should involve mental health professionals, foster parents, and, if appropriate, the children. It may be appropriate to keep siblings together but develop a safety plan.
Prospective parents inquiring to the Department of Children and Families or subcontractors about adopting a child will be referred to training programs.
Membership in a sibling group is considered a risk factor. Sibling group adoption may be eligible for the Florida adoption subsidy. If the criteria are met, the adoptive parents may receive a monthly maintenance subsidy.
Keeping siblings together and providing them with an adoptive home is a goal of adoption law in Florida and other states. Adopting siblings isn’t necessarily more difficult, but it’s important to prepare. You may have legal assistance with the adoption process.
Contact an Experienced Adoption Lawyer Today
Gulf Coast Adoptions handles sibling adoptions. Attorney Clay H. Whittaker and his wife Cheryl are adoptive parents. They understand the special considerations and what parents need to know before adopting siblings. Call 850-999-7977 or message Gulf Coast Adoptions to begin.